I'm going to be adding backsplash tile. I will be using "pencils" as the first course from the countertop up. Can I just silicone the bottom of the "pencils" to the counter top to prevent water from going under them or do I still have to grout them to the CT? Please advise.

Thanks,

John

I am not sure what you mean by "pencils" but the bottom of a backsplash is caulked not grouted. This allows for a very slight flex joint between the two surfaces.

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Originally Posted by ballengerb1

I am not sure what you mean by "pencils" but the bottom of a backsplash is caulked not grouted. This allows for a very slight flex joint between the two surfaces.

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Pencils are a border tile that are either6", 9" or 12" long and only approx. 3/4" high. Is the caulking hidden under the tile pencil or exposed in view? If exposed doesn't it have to match the color of the grout? I'm thinking I lay a bead of caulking and place the tile pencils on top with no visible evedence that there is any caulking under the tile, correct?

The best way to "caulk" this is to use 100% silicone. Lay a bead on the counter top and squeeze it out by pushing tile down to counter. Allow squeeze out to cure for 48 hours and cut down parallel with tile with point against counter. Peel cured bead off counter. This will leave a minimal amount of silicone showing and not allow the feathered edges of a "cove" installation to lift when cleaning. Water getting under the edges of a silicone cove is what makes it fail. Match color to tile or counter or use a translucent white. Translucent White picks up the colors around it and blends them.